Best Cake Mixes of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 27, 2026

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Cake mixes are a convenient and time-saving option for those who love to bake. With a variety of flavors and styles to choose from, they offer a quick and easy way to whip up a delicious dessert without the hassle of measuring and mixing ingredients. Whether it's a classic vanilla cake or a decadent chocolate fudge cake, cake mixes provide a consistent and reliable result every time. They are perfect for busy parents, novice bakers, or anyone who wants to enjoy a sweet treat without the fuss. With just a few simple steps, cake mixes allow anyone to become a master baker in no time.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

365 by Whole Foods Market Gluten Free Yellow Cake Mix Cover #TOP 1
365 by Whole Foods Market Gluten Free Yellow Cake Mix
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Betty Crocker Super Moist French Vanilla Cake Mix Cover #TOP 2
Betty Crocker Super Moist French Vanilla Cake Mix
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Duncan Hines Classic Devil's Food Cake Mix Cover #TOP 3
Duncan Hines Classic Devil's Food Cake Mix
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Cake Mixes

365 by Whole Foods Market Gluten Free Yellow Cake Mix

365 by Whole Foods Market Gluten Free Yellow Cake Mix Cover
365 by Whole Foods Market, Gluten Free Yellow Cake Mix, 16 Ounce (Pack of 2)

The 365 Gluten Free Yellow Cake mix by Whole Foods Market offers a light and fluffy cake that’s perfect if you need a gluten-free option without compromising taste. You’ll enjoy a classic birthday cake flavor that feels familiar and satisfying. This mix is certified gluten-free and vegetarian, so it’s safe for those with dietary restrictions. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients, making it easy and convenient for you to prepare a delicious cake at home without any hassle. This mix helps you create a moist and airy dessert that everyone can enjoy.

What We Like
Excellent flavor and texture
Indistinguishable from regular cake
Light, two-layer cake
Easy to ice and serve
Affordable gluten-free option
What We Don't Like
Requires multiple preparation steps
Slight dryness for some tastes

Betty Crocker Super Moist French Vanilla Cake Mix

Hengulus
Betty Crocker Super Moist French Vanilla Cake Mix Cover
Betty Crocker Delights Super Moist French Vanilla Cake Mix, 13.25 oz

Betty Crocker Cake Mix makes baking a breeze with its convenient pudding-infused formula, ensuring your cake is rich in flavor and texture. You only need to add a few simple ingredients and pop it in the oven, saving you valuable time during busy holiday seasons. This versatile mix allows you to unleash your creativity by customizing it with various Betty Crocker recipes, making it a fun family activity. You can even elevate your dessert by adding frosting or using a cake decorating kit for a festive touch. Enjoy a delicious and moist cake perfect for gatherings or as a thoughtful gift.

What We Like
Consistent moist texture
Easy to use
Great flavor variety
Affordable price
Reliable results
What We Don't Like
Some flavors may feel basic
#TOP 3

Duncan Hines Classic Devil's Food Cake Mix

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Duncan Hines Classic Devil's Food Cake Mix Cover
Duncan Hines Devil's Food Cake Mix, 15.25 oz.

Duncan Hines Perfectly Moist Devil's Food Cake Mix is a rich, moist chocolate flavor that will please everyone. This boxed cake mix makes one 13 by 9 inch chocolate cake or 24 cupcakes. Just add water, eggs and vegetable oil to this devil's food chocolate cake mix for a ready-to-bake batter. Celebrating is simple with this cake mix, and it's perfect for creating delicious desserts like layer cake, cake pops and cupcakes.

What We Like
Moist and fluffy texture
Easy to prepare
Delicious flavor options
Versatile uses
Family approved taste
What We Don't Like
Occasional packaging issues
Slightly higher price
#TOP 4

Betty Crocker Delights Super Moist Strawberry Cake Mix

Betty Crocker Delights Super Moist Strawberry Cake Mix Cover
Betty Crocker Delights Super Moist Strawberry Cake Mix, 13.25 oz

Betty Crocker Strawberry Cake Mix makes baking a delicious strawberry-flavored cake simple and quick. You only need to add a few basic ingredients and bake, saving you valuable time in the kitchen. This mix is versatile, allowing you to create cupcakes, follow Betty Crocker recipes, or pair it with different frostings for variety. Plus, it delivers a moist and tasty cake that’s perfect for everyday treats or special celebrations like birthdays. With this cake mix, you get both convenience and great flavor in one easy package.

What We Like
Super moist texture
Easy and quick preparation
Great flavor variety
Reliable baking results
Excellent value for price
What We Don't Like
Not as fancy as bakery cakes
#TOP 5

Duncan Hines Signature Red Velvet Cake Mix 15.25 oz

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Duncan Hines Signature Red Velvet Cake Mix 15.25 oz Cover
Duncan Hines Red Velvet Cake Mix, 15.25 oz.

The Duncan Hines Red Velvet Mix is a convenient choice for anyone who loves rich chocolate-flavored desserts. This 15.25-ounce box lets you easily bake delicious red velvet cupcakes or a classic sponge cake, perfect for both special occasions and everyday treats. The mix uses real cocoa to give you that deep, satisfying chocolate taste. Plus, it’s simple to prepare—just add eggs, oil, and water, and you’re ready to bake. Whether you want to make 24 cupcakes or a 13 by 9-inch cake, this mix offers flexibility and ease for your baking needs.

What We Like
Moist and fluffy texture
Easy to make
Great taste
Rich red color
Good value
What We Don't Like
Instructions only in English

King Arthur Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake Mix

TS0417-A700ML-M279
King Arthur Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake Mix Cover
King Arthur Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Mix: Rich, Moist, and Delicious Dessert for Birthdays and Special Occasions - Non-GMO, Kosher, Non-Dairy Baking Mix (22 oz)

King Arthur Chocolate Cake Mix is a delicious, rich gluten-free cake mix that is perfect for birthdays and special occasions. This mix is carefully crafted to replicate the taste of traditional recipes. It has a tender and moist texture with an intense chocolate flavor that is hard to resist. With this mix, you can make two 8" or 9" round layers, one 9" x 13" sheet cake, or 24 cupcakes. King Arthur Chocolate Cake Mix is Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Gluten-Free by The GFCO, Certified Kosher, and Non-Dairy. The mix has been meticulously tested and blended in the King Arthur test kitchen to ensure the best results.

What We Like
Decadent chocolate flavor
Moist and fluffy texture
Easy to prepare
Gluten and dairy free
Indistinguishable from regular cake
What We Don't Like
High sugar content
Occasional packaging issues
#TOP 7

King Arthur Gluten Free Confetti Cake Mix

SUVELAM
Confetti
King Arthur Gluten Free Confetti Cake Mix Cover
King Arthur Gluten-Free Cake Mix, Confetti, 18 oz

King Arthur's Confetti Cake Mix is a soft-baked cake, studded with naturally colored sprinkles, made with no synthetic flavors, colors, or preservatives. This 18 oz mix makes two 8" or 9" round layers, one 9" x 13" sheet cake, or 24 cupcakes. It is certified Gluten-Free by the non-profit Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), and is a 100% Employee-Owned Company and a founding B Corporation.

What We Like
Moist and fluffy texture
Delicious gluten-free taste
Popular with kids and adults
Easy to prepare
No gritty aftertaste
What We Don't Like
Slightly higher price
Occasional packaging issue
#TOP 8

Ann Clark Gourmet Chocolate Cake Mix

Ann Clark Gourmet Chocolate Cake Mix Cover
Ann Clark Gourmet Chocolate Cake Mix

The Ann Clark Chocolate Cake Mix lets you create a rich and smooth chocolate cake perfect for any celebration. You can easily bake a bakery-quality cake at home by just adding milk, eggs, and vegetable oil, saving you time and effort. This mix uses only the finest ingredients, like unbleached artisan flour and Dutch-process cocoa, ensuring a premium taste you can enjoy with your family. Plus, Ann Clark's trusted expertise means you get a delicious cake mix made with care and quality, ideal for special occasions or everyday treats.

What We Like
Rich chocolate flavor
Easy home baking
Premium ingredients
Trusted brand quality
#TOP 9

Judee's Gluten Free Meringue Powder Mix 11.4 Oz

Judee's Gluten Free Meringue Powder Mix 11.4 Oz Cover
Judee's Gluten Free Complete Meringue Powder Mix - Royal Icing Mix & Cookie Decorating Supplies - Meringue Powder for Cookies & Pies - 11.4 Oz

Judee's Gluten Free Meringue is a versatile baking essential that helps you create perfect royal icing and meringue treats with ease. This mix only requires water to make fluffy meringue, and by adding powdered sugar, you can quickly whip up smooth royal icing ideal for decorating cookies. Made in a dedicated gluten-free facility, it ensures safety for those with gluten sensitivities, giving you peace of mind. The resealable pouch keeps the powder fresh for long-term use, so you can keep it handy for all your baking needs. With a premium blend of quality ingredients, you’ll enjoy reliable results every time.

What We Like
Easy to use
Great royal icing results
Good value
Strong, sturdy meringue
Better taste than competitors
What We Don't Like
Package size could be improved
Slightly high price per batch
#TOP 10

Duncan Hines Spice Cake Mix

Duncan Hines Spice Cake Mix Cover
Duncan Hines Spice Cake Mix, 15.25 oz.

Duncan Hines Spice Cake is a delightful cake mix that offers the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. This mix is perfect for creating a delicious sponge cake, whether you're hosting a fall gathering or simply want a sweet treat at home. With just a few simple ingredients—eggs, vegetable oil, and water—you can easily whip up 24 cupcakes or a 13 by 9 inch cake. The convenience of a boxed mix means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your tasty creations with friends and family.

What We Like
Moist texture
Easy to prepare
Versatile for recipes
Delicious spice flavor
Gluten free option
What We Don't Like
No icing included
Flavor can be mild
Buying Guide Image

Find Your Fit: How to Buy the Right Cake Mixes

Introduction

Finding the right cake mix can be a tricky endeavor. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to evaluate which ones are worthy of your baking time and effort. It's important to understand the different types of cake mixes, their ingredients and their intended uses, so that you can make an informed decision and find a cake mix that meets your needs.

Best Practices for Cake Mix Shopping

When shopping for cake mix, it's important to consider the ingredients and the type of cake mix you're looking for. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:

  • Read the labels carefully. Pay close attention to the ingredients list — the fewer ingredients, the better — and make sure that the mix is free of preservatives, artificial flavors and other additives.
  • Look for whole grain flours and natural sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, instead of white sugar.
  • Consider the type of cake mix you need. Some mixes are designed for baking cakes from scratch, while others are designed for baking cakes from a box.
  • Make sure that the mix is suitable for the type of cake you're making. For instance, if you're making a chocolate cake, make sure to choose a chocolate cake mix.
  • Consider the brand of cake mix. Some brands are more reliable than others, so it's important to do your research and read reviews before making your purchase.

Cake Mixes: Types and Uses

The type of cake mix you choose will depend on the type of cake you're making. Here are some of the most popular types of cake mixes and their intended uses:

  • Standard Cake Mixes: These are the most common type of cake mix and are designed for making cakes from scratch. Standard cake mixes often contain flour, sugar, baking powder, and other ingredients.

  • Box Cake Mixes: These mixes are designed for baking cakes from a box. Box cake mixes often contain a pre-measured amount of ingredients, such as flour, sugar, baking powder, and other ingredients.

  • Premium Cake Mixes: These are specialty mixes that are designed for more complex cakes, such as wedding cakes or birthday cakes. Premium mixes often contain a higher quality of ingredients and may include natural sweeteners, whole grain flours, and other ingredients.

  • Gluten-Free Cake Mixes: These are mixes that are specifically designed for those with gluten allergies or sensitivities. Gluten-free mixes are often made with alternative flours, such as almond flour or coconut flour, and may include additional ingredients, such as xanthan gum, to help the cake rise.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing cake mix, it's important to consider the type of cake you're making, the ingredients, and the brand of the mix. It's also important to read labels carefully and make sure the mix is free of additives and preservatives. By following these tips and understanding the different types of cake mixes and their intended uses, you'll be able to find a cake mix that meets your needs and produces a delicious cake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What makes a box cake mix better?

To make a box cake mix better, you can use room temperature ingredients, replace water with milk or buttermilk, substitute sour cream, use oil instead of butter, add more eggs, include vanilla extract, make it a chocolate lovers' cake, and decorate it like a pro. These tips can enhance the taste, texture, and overall quality of the cake.

2. What cake mix do bakeries use?

Contrary to popular belief, most bakeries do not bake cakes from scratch. Many bakeries use boxed cake mixes, such as Duncan Hines, which are readily available in grocery stores. The bakery then adds their own unique touches and decorations to elevate the boxed cake mix and create delicious cakes.

3. Do professional bakers use boxed cake mix?

Yes, many professional bakers use boxed cake mixes. They have discovered ways to enhance and elevate the flavor and texture of the boxed mix to create delicious cakes. Boxed cake mixes provide convenience and consistency, allowing bakers to focus on their unique decorations and other creative elements.

4. Does Betty Crocker cake mix taste better with milk or water?

Using milk instead of water in Betty Crocker cake mix can add density, fat, and extra flavor to the cake. Additionally, using only egg whites instead of whole eggs can make the cake fluffy and whiter in appearance. These substitutions can enhance the taste and texture of the cake.

5. Should I add an extra egg to box cake mix?

Adding an extra egg to a boxed cake mix can make the cake richer-tasting and moister. Most boxed mixes call for three eggs, but using four eggs can result in a more indulgent cake. Another tip is to replace the water called for on the package with dairy, which can further enhance the flavor and texture.

6. Is it cheaper to buy cake mix or make from scratch?

Buying a cake mix is generally cheaper and requires less effort compared to making a cake from scratch. However, homemade cakes offer a superior flavor and texture compared to boxed mixes. While boxed mixes can be convenient, homemade cakes are worth the extra effort for those seeking a more remarkable and satisfying taste experience.

Editor's Notes

During our cake mix research, we found 25 cake mix products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 238,743 customer reviews through our big data system to write the cake mixes list. We found that most customers choose cake mixes with an average price of $3.36.

The cake mixes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of cake mixes, including 365 by Whole Foods Market, Betty Crocker, Duncan Hines, King Arthur, Ann Clark Cookie Cutters. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!

Cake Mixes Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand 365 by Whole Foods Market Betty Crocker Duncan Hines Betty Crocker Duncan Hines King Arthur King Arthur Ann Clark Cookie Cutters Judee's Gluten Free Duncan Hines
Units 32.0 Ounce 13.25 Ounce 15.25 Ounce 13.25 Ounce 15.25 Ounce 22.0 Ounce 18.0 Ounce 1 Count 11.4 Ounce 15.25 Ounce
Flavor Coffee French-Vanilla Devils-Food Strawberry Red-Velvet Chocolate Sugar Chocolate Meringue Spice
Unit Count 32.0 Ounce 13.25 Ounce 15.25 Ounce 13.25 Ounce 15.25 Ounce 22.0 Ounce 18.0 Ounce 1 Count 11.4 Ounce 15.25 Ounce
Specialty Certified Kosher, Gluten Free, Non GMO, Vegetarian - kosher Oven Safe Convenient Gluten-free,Kosher,Non-dairy,Non-gmo Gluten Free - Gluten-free,No Preservatives,Nut-free Convenient
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
Where to Buy